Partners at Learning (PAL) Program

Share to Maximize

IMPACT

Partners at Learning (PAL) Program

As part of the Department of Education Studies, PAL provides opportunities for UC San Diego students to assist underrepresented and underserved preK-12 students at more than 40 area schools. About 500 UC San Diego undergraduates each year earn academic credit while contributing more than 20,000 volunteer hours mentoring and tutoring.

The program is clearly a win for everyone involved. University students taking part in PAL are exposed to an introduction to theoretical and practical issues in P-12 education. And the grade-school students that they meet with are inspired by young, enthusiastic instructors who are also college role models embarking on a career. However, UC San Diego students are above all motivated by a desire to help. The participating undergraduates come from all majors and college, and may or may not be considering careers in education. The PAL classes fulfill many college and university-wide graduation requirements so they are taken by a diverse cross-section of UC San Diego students.

Started in 1991, the program continues to grow because of demand from students and local communities. PAL and various PAL faculty, staff and student leaders have won awards for their outstanding service to a population that largely resides in lower-income neighborhoods.

Help UC San Diego students engage with issues of equity and access through service-learning experiences.